Best AI-proof jobs in the US 2026: Worried about AI? These AI-proof jobs for 2026 offer six-figure salaries
Healthcare Leads Indeed’s Best Jobs for 2026
In fact, the ranking of the 50 Best Jobs in the US for 2026 reveals that seven of the top 10 positions are in healthcare, an industry that relies heavily on direct human interaction. According to one report, the top 10 positions on the list all offer an average annual salary of over $100,000.
Cardiac Medical Technician Tops the List
Topping the rankings is the cardiac medical technician, whose average annual salary is $133,907. Indeed, the Investopedia report found that demand for this role has been supported by strong job opportunities and solid wage growth over the past three years.
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Cardiac Medical Technician Tops the List This Year
Other health care roles that dominate the top tier include nurse practitioner, speech-language pathologist, licensed professional counselor, licensed clinical social worker, physical therapist, occupational therapist, and radiation therapist.
The concentration of healthcare roles highlights a broader labor market trend. Healthcare continues to expand while hiring remains slow overall.
Why Does Healthcare Uptake Continue to Increase?
Indeed noted that although jobs in the healthcare sector account for only 11% of total employment, they represent almost three-quarters of the sector’s recent job growth. Demand is fueled by the needs of an aging population and increasing demand for both basic and elective medical care. Also read: Delay Social Security until age 70? Here’s how your monthly check could jump to $2,500
Aging Population Increases Long-Term Demand
Pew Research Center predicts that the number of Americans age 100 and older will more than quadruple over the next 30 years, according to an Investopedia report.
Skilled Trades Also Offer Six-Figure Opportunities
Qualified tradesmen also stand out. Owner-operator truck drivers are second on the list, offering a median annual salary of $160,000. While pay growth for the role has fallen slightly, job postings have increased by 39% in the last three years. HVAC technicians, electricians and electrical foremen are also seeing strong hiring momentum.
Technology Employment Remains Above Pre-Pandemic Levels
Technology jobs remain part of the picture, albeit more selectively. While data scientist was the only technology role to make the top 10, other positions supporting artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure and security ranked lower, according to the Investopedia report. Despite the decline in technology job postings since 2020, employment in computer and math fields remains well above pre-pandemic levels.
FAQ
What is the best job of 2026?
Cardiac medical technician with a median annual salary of $133,907.
Are there still high-paying jobs despite the AI disruption?
Yes. Many of the best-paying jobs in 2026 rely on people skills and offer six-figure salaries.
